December, 1998

Excerpt

Jered Mandeville is impossibly arrogant.   Tessa Astley is innocent and optimistic.  Their marriage was a dream come true for Tessa, and matter of convenience for Jered.  Fate and Nature, however, conspired to change both their minds.

Tessa's parents are two strong willed people, especially her mother, Helena.  And Chalmers, the long-suffering valet, made me smile.  It's Jered and Tessa, however, who dominate the story.  Jered doesn't want a soulmate, just a proper duchess hidden away on his country estate to beget heirs.  He certainly doesn't see a place for his sheltered bride in his decadent life in Regency London.   So Tessa starts a campaign to win his heart by invading his home, his reckless adventures, and his bed.  And just perhaps she might be able to convince the cynical duke to feel again, once upon a wicked time. 

Believe it or not, Jered has been called cruel by some readers.  One person told me that he was the cruelest hero she'd ever read.  To tell you the truth, I didn't think him mean at all.  I understood Jered, from his toes to his eyebrows.  He was simply a product of his environment.  He was very close to being evil, but he pulled himself back from the brink.  Tessa, far from being a timid mouse, was simply optimistic.  She refused to think that what she wanted wouldn't occur.  I love that kind of wide-eyed tenacity myself.   

REVIEWS

Upon a Wicked Time - Set in the glittering, depraved society of the late 18th century London, Ranney’s highly entertaining historical romance captures the turmoil of a man raised not to care and a woman who cares too much. BookList, 12/98

Upon a Wicked Time - Ms. Ranney will have you quickly turning pages to the end of this irresistible tale to keep up with the bantering between these two characters.  Splendid!  4-1/2 Bells - Bell, Book and Candle, 12/98

Upon a Wicked Time - Ms. Ranney is a superb storyteller full of wonderful surprises!  Her books are informative of the times, witty, fabulous characters, fast-paced, sensual, and leave you with the feeling "I've got to get another book by Karen Ranney."  - Suzanne Coleburn, The Belles & Beaux of Romance, 12/98

Upon a Wicked Time - To say that Ms. Ranney is a talented author is an understatement.  This is a sensual, yet charming read.  Not an easy combination for any author.  Ms. Ranney does an excellent job and leaves the reader wanting more.  Definitely a keeper, right beside all of Ms. Ranney's other books - Rendezvous, 10/98

Upon a Wicked Time - Ms. Ranney never fails to amaze me with the depth of her characterizations, the obstacles and personal conflicts her characters overcome, and the passion and romance she shares with her readers.  Her imagination and her ability to share her "gift" with others elevates her to the very top of the genre.  If you haven't read a Ranney novel, you can't really say you're a reader of romance novels - at least not the best ones! - Old Book Barn Gazette, 11/98

Upon a Wicked Time - Karen Ranney's Upon a Wicked Time takes its readers into a labyrinth of deep emotion, giving us a smart and strong-willed heroine (with very few affectations, thank goodness) who shows us a way to reclaim a wild man's soul.  Historical readers will definitely appreciate Karen Ranney's attention to detail.  Contemporary readers will cheer for a heroine we would be proud to call "sister" in any age.  Keep a cool glass of water handy for getting through the steamy love scenes, and tissues are a must.  All in all, this is one to be read, reread, and recommended.   - WCRG on AOL Reviewer Board

Upon a Wicked Time - Extraordinary is the only word to describe this novel.  Exceptional research blends the plot into a seamless tapestry of delight and splendor.  Characters drawn larger than life act on a stage of tension and the romance exceeds all expectations.  Gift yourself with the purchase of Upon a Wicked Time and settle in for the read of your life.  Kathee Card - Reader to Reader - New and Previously Owned Books, 12/98

Upon a Wicked Time is a sensual, emotional tale, laced with decadence and bright moments of humor.  The prose is excellent, and the main characters are so well drawn that readers will feel like they know them intimately.  Bookbug on the Web - 4+ stars, 12/98

Upon a Wicked Time - More than liking this book, I admired it.   I admired its details, characterizations, evocative writing, wry humor, and ingenuity.  It's different in a way, a sunny war-of-wills based solidly in the shadows.  if you've ever struggled for the sake of love, you'll understand who these people are.  I know I do.   All About Romance - Desert Isle Review, 1/99

Upon a Wicked Time - Utterly captivating!  Another perfect gem!  One of this years most captivating and adorable novels!  Karen Ranney is carving herself a regal throne as she pens another engaging tale of passion.  Karen Ranney demonstrates full command of her abilities with full-blown characters, an activated plot, an unerring eye for complementary scenery, and a masterful use of theme.  Here is reading entertainment at its very best - Gold Star - Polly Anderson, Romance Communications, 12/98